This is an update - Riviana Foods has now removed all of their packages with the mascot in question from their website and has committed to discontinuing production completely in September! We congratulate the company and thank all of those who signed this petition.Your support has been incredible! We’ll update you in October to confirm the company’s actions. 

The Mahatma Rice brand owned by Houston-based Riviana continues to sport a racist logo on their Spicy Yellow Seasoned Rice, Pilaf Seasoned Rice, and Chicken Seasoned Rice. This logo which is featured (above) is yet another example of cultural appropriation against a minority. Mahatma Rice is grown and packaged in the USA, but it is marketed with a caricature of an Indian man.This caricature is solely based on a racist stereotype. The “Indian man” is depicted wearing a turban and kurta pajama pants. This outfit comes from Punjab, a region in India, and is commonly worn. Using the clothing to portray an Indian, while still giving the cartoon white skin makes the logo even more offensive. The caricature is also seen holding a wand. This insinuates that he is a genie or magician. Overall, this “Indian man” not only demonstrates cultural appropriation, but also a racial stereotype. All of these elements create a toxic and comedic image of Indian people which can be demeaning to those who are proud of their culture. Because of this, it is clear the racist, offensive logo of Mahatma Rice MUST GO.